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I recently wore one of my favorite white Lilly Pulitzer dresses to a tasting dinner at Lunch and Supper’s Urban Roost event space.

Ah, the white party. Such a fun idea, but so difficult to shop for. And with Diner En Blanc, the Elby’s En Blanc a few years back, even the Faison Center’s Endless Summer Party on September 8, white attire seems to be the new party fad. If it’s an outdoor event like Diner En Blanc coming up on August 5th in Richmond, Va., a white dress sounds like the coolest option. But you don’t want to look like you’re a bride or proud graduate. The dress’s actual style and then how you style it is key. Look for something that’s distinctive and fashionable. As a reminder, these are the wardrobe rules for Diner En Blanc and they’re probably good to keep in mind for any white party outfits.

The sweetheart neck and tiered skirt on this short white dress would flatter a variety of figures. It would look especially flattering with heels or wedges, but could also work with a metallic flip flop. Also keep in mind, the Revolve website has over 600 white dresses
to browse along with free 2-day shipping, so shop away.

The one shoulder look takes this dress from basic to breathtaking. I love that it could be worn later simply with flip flops or dressed up for a party with some show-stopper sandals, dangly earrings and a serious cuff bracelet.

I love this dress. I love the smocked styling on the top and sleeves. I love the tassels on the bottom. I love the bell sleeves. I love the slightly bohemian look that can easily go luxe. Really, I just want this dress. But I won’t be mad if you get one, too.

This dress is sexy sexy, but the midi length and white lace keep it from looking slutty slutty.

If you end up shopping locally, I saw several fab white dresses at Nellie Georgeover the weekend as well.

What to Wear Under Your White Dress

The only thing more challenging than selecting the right white ensemble is selecting what to wear under it. Some white dresses are naturally a tad sheer. This doesn’t mean you can’t wear them; it does mean you need to select the right undergarments, though. As a general rule, choose beige over white as beige tends to blend in with your skin while white underneath sometimes shows through the white on top.

No matter your size, if your dress is made from a slinky fabric, consider shapewear. You want that white fabric to fall over smooth, elegant lines without any bumps from bra or panty lines.

A seamless slip like this one can go over your favorite strapless bra, provide some light shaping, and create a smooth line from top to bottom. If you order this one, make sure you read the size chart. The sizes are European and you’ll need to check the American translation to get the right size.

These boy shorts may not be super sexy, but they do provide a perfectly light level of shaping and smoothing while still being comfortable enough to allow you to breathe/eat a piece of bread without feeling like you are going to faint throughout the evening. They come in the pictured shade of tan as well as one lighter for under white ensembles.

The one time I would suggest a white undergarment is when you choose a wrap dress or other look with a high slit where the piece you wear underneath might actually show. In that case, look for something pretty like this little slip from Amazon.